Deribit Warns of 50% Surge in Job Scams Targeting Crypto Community

Deribit, a leading crypto exchange, has issued a warning about a surge in job scams targeting the crypto community. The exchange has observed an increase in scammers posing as recruiters from well-known firms, including Deribit itself, to lure job seekers with promising opportunities. These scammers create fake LinkedIn profiles and post attractive job advertisements, specifically targeting senior personnel and developers to gain access to sensitive information.

Anthony Sweeney, the Chief Information Security Officer at Deribit, highlighted the sophistication of these scams. He noted that the crypto industry often pioneers the latest fraud tactics, and this scam is no exception. The scammers employ various tactics to defraud their victims, including tricking candidates into downloading malware disguised as an “online assessment” and offering fake jobs with “exclusive pre-hire perks,” such as discounted company shares. Ultimately, the scammers aim to embezzle the victims’ money. In some cases, scammers may also arrange in-person meetings, requesting candidates to bring their official work laptops, likely with the intention of gaining unauthorized access to sensitive company data.

Deribit advises the community to stay vigilant and verify the authenticity of recruiters’ profiles. The exchange suggests that individuals should ensure that the profile has clear connections with the platform they claim to represent. Additionally, candidates are advised to contact the company’s HR department directly through official channels to confirm the recruiter’s identity, even if their profile appears legitimate. This caution comes as job scams have significantly increased, with individuals seeking high-paying job opportunities becoming increasingly vulnerable to fraudulent schemes.

The rise in job scams is part of a broader trend of sophisticated fraud tactics targeting the crypto community. As the industry continues to grow, it is essential for individuals to remain vigilant and take proactive measures to protect themselves from these scams. By verifying the authenticity of recruiters and being cautious of suspicious job offers, the community can help mitigate the risk of falling victim to these malicious actors.